Types of Hull Shapes

Explore the different hull shapes of boats, their unique characteristics, and how they impact performance, stability, and suitability for various water activities.

Flat-Bottom Hulls

Flat-bottom boats are usually cheaper to make and don’t sit deep in the water. They can quickly get up to speed and glide on the water, which makes them great for calm waters. They can be bumpy at high speeds and often have low sides, so they can easily get water inside if there are waves. Some examples of flat-bottom boats are jon boats, small utility boats, and racing runabouts.

Round Bottom Hulls

Round-bottom hulls move easily through the water at slow speeds, making them ideal for sailboats, canoes, and some kayaks. They can be somewhat unstable, especially in choppy waters.

V-Shaped Hulls

V-shaped hulls provide a smooth ride in choppy water, making them ideal for some small utility boats and runabouts. However, they require more power to move at the same speeds as flat-bottom hulls.

Deep V-Shaped Hulls

Deep-V hulls provide an even smoother ride in choppy water than v-shaped hulls. They are commonly found on most runabouts, cruisers, and larger recreational boats. They require more power than v-shaped hulls.

Multi-Hulls

Catamarans and some paddle craft are examples of multi-hull boats. The wide stance provides greater stability. Each of the hulls may carry any of the bottom designs described above.